Packing for a Summer Trip to Australia
How exciting, you've got an international trip coming up. With a new climate and culture comes many questions when packing, like how to dress, how much to pack, how to make the most of the trip, etc. As you work out whether you're more excited about all the possibilities or anxious about the traveling, let us ease the pressure by providing some tips and tricks for how to make the trip smooth sailing.
Australia is known for its diverse landscapes and natural beauty. Its stunning views and friendly locals make it a popular tourist destination worldwide. Whether you're going for a family holiday, a work trip, or a break from daily life, you can make the journey much more accessible by packing a few essentials. Once you step off the plane and onto Australian ground, it will be well worth all the preparation.
Clothing
When packing for a trip to a new place you've never been, do your due diligence and research the weather forecast, the highs, and lows, and check for what kind of precipitation to expect. Summer in Australia is hot and sunny; breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are essential. Bring an assortment of clothing options like tops, bottoms, dresses, and women's shorts so that you can mix and match as necessary depending on what each day holds. A women's rain jacket will be an absolute must for the summer months, as rain is a common occurrence. Of course, sunglasses, hats, and bathing suits are also a must.
Make the Most of a Long Layover
Although, hopefully, your trip only calls for a short layover, sometimes long ones are unavoidable, especially with a place so far away. If you anticipate a 12-hour layover in an international airport, we'll provide you with a few carry-on item ideas to make the most of your time.
12-Hour Layover Packing
Packing for a 12-hour layover can feel daunting, but it doesn't have to be a stress inducer if you've got everything you need. While the rest of your belongings are safely stowed away in a checked bag, a piece of carry-on luggage that keeps essentials with you will keep you comfortable and entertained. Opt for a lightweight carry-on luggage piece so that getting around the airport with it is easy. Wheels on the luggage make a big difference, as no one wants to carry around a duffle bag for 12 hours.
Comfort Items
Bring comfort items like a throw blanket, an eye mask, and a neck pillow in this carry-on. A sweatshirt, sweater, or women's fleece jacket will make a big difference in keeping you warm during the flight and layover, as airports and planes tend to be well-airconditioned. When selecting your footwear, we recommend a shoe that allows you to wear socks to keep your feet warm and an extra pair of socks. To make sleeping possible, earplugs or noise-canceling headphones are a must.
Entertainment
Because airport internet can be a gamble, you can download music, movies, and tv shows before leaving for the airport. Bring plenty of entertainment in the form of a book, tablet, phone, or other electronics so that you can tune out for hours at a time, making the layover go faster than anticipated. Of course, it's important to tune out sparingly so you don't miss your flight. Keep alarms on your phone if you fall asleep or get sucked into a new tv series. An absolute essential will be chargers for all your devices carried with you so that when you run out of power, it isn't the end of your fun. Although you'll be able to get one in Australia, it doesn't hurt to prepare yourself with a power adapter that allows you to plug your chargers into Australian outlets, which look a little different than ours.
Snacks
Pack snacks from home that will make you feel energized and happy, like granola bars, fruit, and trail mix. Bring gum or a small portion of candy when you get bored. Bring a reusable water bottle (empty when arriving at the airport) to refill as often as you want and keep you hydrated.
Toiletries
Toiletries will make a big difference in keeping you comfortable. Keep any medications you need, including your prescriptions, digestive aids, vitamins, and analgesics. Ensure everything is the right size for travel and contained in a clear zip-lock bag. Other considerations are eye drops, toothpaste, toothbrush, mouthwash, hand sanitizer, face wipes, makeup, and feminine hygiene products.
Important Documents
Of course, you'll want to keep your money, identification card, travel documents like travel insurance and flight itineraries, and credit and debit cards on your person.
Pet Supplies
If you're traveling with an animal, plan for all your fur baby's needs with pet supplies like food, a water dish, treats, pet wipes, toys, leashes, health documents, and blankets or cat or dog jackets. Having a plan for when she has to relieve herself is essential.
Have a Blast
Your trip to Australia will be a highlight of your year, with plenty of adventure and joy ahead. You can make the trip a breeze with a bit of planning and a few essential supplies.